Bill > S2511

This bill prohibits pet shops from selling cats, dogs, or rabbits, aiming to protect consumers and animals from problematic breeding operations and to encourage adoption from shelters and rescue organizations. It also repeals the "Pet Purchase Protection Act," which previously offered some consumer protections related to pet sales. The bill defines terms like "animal rescue organization," "breeder," "broker," and "pet shop" to clarify its scope. It establishes that it is an unlawful practice for breeders, brokers, or kennels to knowingly sell a cat or dog that is unfit for purchase, with a death within 14 days of sale indicating the animal was unfit. Furthermore, animal rescue organizations, shelters, pounds, and pet shops are prohibited from obtaining cats, dogs, or rabbits from breeders or brokers for payment or compensation. Pet shops can still sell other types of animals and pet supplies, and they may collaborate with rescue organizations to showcase adoptable animals, but they cannot receive payment for this. Violations of the sales prohibition can result in fines, and repeated violations may lead to the revocation of a pet shop's license and a permanent ban from operating. The bill also amends existing definitions to align with these new provisions, for instance, clarifying that pet shops are retail establishments where animals are kept or displayed for sale or adoption, and that shelters are non-profit establishments for housing and distributing animals. The new law will take effect 180 days after enactment.

Business and Industry

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S2511